A female donkey, or a female given name (also spelled Jenny).
From 'jenny' or 'jennet', possibly from the name Jenny used generically for female animals (like 'Jack' for males). The animal meaning dates back to the 1600s.
The word 'jenny' for a female donkey was so common that 'jenny' became a generic name for any female animal, which is why we say 'Jenny wren' and 'Jenny ass'—it's the opposite of how 'John' works for males.
Historically used as derogatory slang for women (especially in some regional dialects), derived from feminized diminutive forms. Carries gendered contempt regardless of literal referent.
Avoid in reference to people. If used as a name or in animal context (female donkey), clarify to prevent misunderstanding.
["jenny (for donkey)","proper name alternatives"]
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